The Winter Solstice - Dec. 21st -ish

Rebirth of the Sun

Also known as Yule. This Solstice is the celebration of the shortest day and longest night. The Goddess gives birth to the God and the Holly King gives his crown to the Oak King as the Sun grows in power.

Most of the symbols of Christmas are rooted in pagan traditions, so feel free to use them with abandon! Trees dressed in lights, swapping gifts, dressing the house with greenery, lots of candles, gatherings of and feasting with those who you are closest to.

Now is the time to show gratitude for the gift of life and the ones you love. Take a moment to look forward to the new solar year and the longer days, celebrate your wins and plan for the future.

THEMES: Rebirth of the Sun, shortest day/longest night, new beginnings

COLOUR: Deep greens, blood reds, gold

TIME of DAY: Night

TIME of LIFE: Birth - Baby

HERBS & FLOWERS: Mistletoe, Pine, Fir, Holly, Cinnamon, Orange, Juniper, Clove, Cedar

CRYSTALS: Bloodstone, snowflake obsidian, clear quartz

SYMBOLS: Yule log, Yule tree, candles, Holly King, robin redbreast, snow and snowflakes, mistletoe

INCENSE & OIL

Yule smells like pine needles, log fires, frankincense, myrrh and cinnamon. It evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. These recipes should get you started making your own personal Yule blend.

Incense

3 parts Frankincense

2 parts Dragon's Blood

1/2 part Red Sandalwood

1 part Cinnamon

a few drops Red Wine

Oil

5 drops Sandalwood

5 drops Vanilla extract

6 drops Jasmine

2 drops Balsam

Mix with 2 tablespoons Grape Seed oil

(The above recipe for Winter Solstice Incense and Oil is directly quoted from Scott Cunningham's book: The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews, Llewellyn Publications, 1992.)